Escalating Violence Claims Lives
In a devastating turn of events, fighting with M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has left at least 13 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers dead, according to United Nations and military officials. The clashes have intensified around Goma, a city of approximately two million, which serves as a critical hub for humanitarian and security efforts in the region. The violence underscores the precarious situation unfolding as M23 rebels capture more territory.
Emergency Actions by the U.N.
In response to the escalating conflict, the U.N. Security Council has convened an emergency meeting for Sunday morning, moved up from its original schedule. The Congolese government requested the meeting amidst growing tensions. On the ground, Congo’s army reports it has successfully thwarted an M23 offensive towards Goma, with support from allied forces, including U.N. peacekeepers and members of the Southern African Development Community Mission (SAMIDRC).
External Influences in the Conflict
Amnesty International’s advocacy director for Africa, Kate Hixon, expressed concerns about the M23’s advances, drawing attention to Rwanda’s alleged backing of the group. The M23, largely composed of ethnic Tutsis who exited the Congolese army over ten years ago, is suspected of seeking to exploit geopolitical shifts, particularly the recent presidential transition in the U.S. Both Congo and U.N. experts have accused Rwanda of providing support to the rebels, a claim the Rwandan government has officially denied.
Casualties Among Peacekeepers
Sadly, the ongoing conflict has taken its toll on peacekeepers, with reports indicating that two South African peacekeepers died on Friday and another Uruguayan soldier lost his life on Saturday. The South African Department of Defense confirmed the loss of seven SAMIDRC soldiers over the past two days. The Uruguayan military identified one victim, Rodolfo Álvarez, who was part of the Uruguay IV Battalion engaged in fulfilling U.N. mandates.
International Efforts to Maintain Peace
Since 2021, alliances between Congo’s government, SAMIDRC, and U.N. forces have worked to prevent M23 from advancing toward Goma. The U.N. peacekeeping mission, known as MONUSCO, has maintained a presence in Congo for over two decades, deploying around 14,000 personnel. On the day of the recent fatalities, South Africa’s Defence Minister, Angie Motshekga, was visiting troops stationed in Congo, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to international peace efforts amidst ongoing turmoil.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Indian Express
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